The Chicago Bears are rolling, and while they've dropped both of their divisional matchups this season, they look like a legitimate Super Bowl contender right now. At the very worst, they're on the verge of being a top team.
The offense is already on point, so they should focus their efforts on the other side of the field. That's why Sports Illustrated's Matt Verderame believes they should be one of the many teams keeping an eye on Budda Baker.
On paper, that would be a perfect match. The Bears could use some help in the secondary, and Baker is one of the best players at the position. In reality, it's almost impossible to envision a scenario where the Bears would even consider that.
Projected Budda Baker trade doesn't add up for the Bears
For starters, let's talk about his salary. He's signed for another season, making $20.8 million next season, according to Spotrac. The Bears can always rework that number, but it's still a lot of money, not to mention that they would have to give up premium draft capital to get him.
Now, let's get into the specifics. The Bears might need help at safety, but they need a free safety, a defensive centerfielder, not a strong safety. Rookie Dillon Thieneman has the athleticism and tools to play both spots, but even if they should develop him as a hybrid player, why mess with his development right now, especially when he's been so great?
Also, Coby Bryant will be out for the season, but what should we make of him and his big contract once he returns in 2027? He was the team's biggest defensive offseason addition, and they won't just move on from him.
Granted, Baker is one of the best safeties in the game, and he'd make every single team in the league better, even the Bears. But that doesn't mean this trade makes sense for Ben Johnson's team, especially given how general manager Ryan Poles operates.
Of course, this doesn't mean this team shouldn't be active in the trade market. If anything, making a move or two might define this team's season, as they already have the most stacked offense in pro football.
But as much as the fans would want to have a star-studded defense, that's just not the way real life works. Baker is a great player, and he deserves to play for a contender, just not for this contender.
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